NSWRL's first premiership shield has a new home

The NSWRL's first premiership shield (1908-13) has a new home - Australia's National Museum in Canberra.

One of Australian rugby league's greatest treasures, the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW Challenge Shield, has finally found a fitting resting place.

The Shield was permanently claimed by the Eastern Suburbs club in 1913, following their third consecutive premiership (1911-1913). As a tribute to their captain, Dally Messenger, the Tri-Colours gave him the Shield.

The RAS Shield will be presented to the National Museum by Dally Messenger III in a special ceremony on Tuesday 8th March.

For the full history of the RAS Shield and its hand-over next Tuesday visit: